Effective leadership requires more than strategy; it demands trust, connection, and emotional intelligence - traits not able to be taught through traditional training. Through my EQiLead program, with horses, I help leaders cultivate these skills in an immersive...

Even at an early age, we begin to absorb the messages around us about who we should be and what’s possible. This articles explores how subtle social conditioning shapes our sense of identity, work, and gender often without us realising. A timely reflection on bias, balance and the quiet power of awareness at any age.

True leadership starts with awareness; of ourselves, of others, and of the signals in between. In this story from an EQiLead workshop, a simple interaction between a participant and a horse reveals how curiosity, empathy and attention build stronger connections in teams. It’s a reminder that perfection isn’t the goal, presence is.

Whether in the board room or the round yard, facing a team of 600 or a 600 kilogram horse, wearing high heels or cowboy boots, understanding emotional intelligence and its importance is a key element to any leader’s success.

No one knows this better than partner at Pitcher Partners Accounting firm, Vicki Macdermid.
First joining the Pitcher Partner team in 1994, the Pakenham South accountant has an extensive and experienced career in the professional service and corporate world.